AI & software

Software developments continue to evolve rapidly and underpin many innovations in nearly all sectors, driven in recent times by the advent of advanced AI algorithms. Our expert-led comprehensive IP strategies provide a vital commercial advantage in this fast-moving, complex field.

Various considerations arise in protecting software-based developments, including whether the requirements for patentability in different jurisdictions are fulfilled. Other considerations include the detectability of third-party implementations, whether retaining knowledge of the software as a trade secret is preferable, and open-source considerations.

HGF’s team have deep knowledge of technical processes behind software and the skills required to identify patentable computer-implemented inventions, to satisfy the different patent protection requirements around the world. HGF also maintains up to date knowledge of case law and other developments in patent law and the software industry to continually develop our practice.

From life sciences and healthcare, to automotive and telecommunications, software underpins many technical fields. At HGF, we frequently provide cross-disciplinary teams of attorneys to work on projects for our clients which include software-specialist attorneys. This ensures our clients benefit from software specific advice as well as the expertise of the attorneys who specialise in the relevant technical field.

Our team guides in-house patent departments, companies, SMEs and academia, delivering our full range of IP services to help your business secure valuable IP protection for your software innovations.

Latest updates

PRESS RELEASE - Oliver Pooley joins HGF as a Partner 21st April 2026

HGF is pleased to announce the appointment of Oliver Pooley who will be joining the firm as a Partner on 21st April 2026. Oliver joins our Technology & Engineering Group …

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Event - 16th April 2026

MedTech Innovation Summit 2026

HGF Partner and Patent Attorney Adam Hines will be attending the MedTech Innovation Summit Dublin 2026, taking place from 28–30 April at The Shelbourne Hotel. As one of Europe’s premier …

Event details

Fuelling IP: Will Oil and Gas Price Shocks Heat or Cool the Energy IP Landscape?

Explosive volatility in energy prices Recent developments in the Middle East have once again highlighted the fragility of global energy markets. Disruption to Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and oil transit …

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Can simulations/modelling be patentable?

Simulations and modelling are core products across many industries, including energy, automotive, and AI. This drives a high volume of patent filings. However, their patentability is often unclear because Article …

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AI, Biotech and trade secrets

In this episode of HGF Presents, Amy Dawson and Jess Davis explore how artificial intelligence is opening new possibilities in the biotechnology sector and how trade secrets can be used …

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New Blog Post - Fuelling IP: Five Common Mistakes Energy Innovators Make When Protecting Intellectual Property (IP)

How to avoid undervaluing, under protecting or overlooking critical innovation in the energy sector. Energy companies are being forced to innovate faster than ever, or risk missing out on massive …

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European Drone Companies, Where are Your Patents?

With significant consolidations occurring in the drone and eVTOL sectors, some European companies look set to miss out through a failure of IP strategy. Innovations and technology often account for …

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A New Era for AI Patents in the UK: Supreme Court Aligns with the EPO

The UK Supreme Court has handed down its long-awaited judgment in Emotional Perception AI Limited (EPAI) vs Comptroller General of Patents, a decision which serves to significantly change the way …

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Let's talk

If you would like to discuss how HGF could help you, contact one of our AI & software specialists.